Press release

It is time for an Independent Environmental Protection Agency

5 August 2011

In response to today's statement by Minister Attwood, Friends of the Earth welcomed the discussion document issued by the Department of the Environment outlining options for root and branch reform in of how Northern Ireland manages its environment.

Friends of the Earth is calling for structural reform that at minimum ensures we get a high quality and healthy environment for everyone. This will require an Environmental Protection Agency that is fearless, independent and has adequate resources and powers.

Friends of the Earth Director, James Orr said:

"We welcome the Minister's statement that this vital issue is back on the agenda. For Friends of the Earth, and the many people who suffer environmental injustice in Northern Ireland, the need for an independent Environmental Protection Agency has never gone away. It is now time to take the politics out of the environment and have strong, independent regulation and enforcement."

"We face many urgent threats to our precious environment. To halt the massive decline in wildlife and the erosion of special landscapes we need to become much better at managing our environment. To deal with pollution, poorly conceived developments, and the pressing need to reduce emissions that cause climate change we need an Environmental Protection Agency."

He added :

"Our message to the Minister is clear. Do not allow vested minority interests to frustrate due process and the rule of law, as they have been doing for decades. There is overwhelming support for strong and consistent regulation to ensure that people's well-being and a strong economy are secured through a healthy environment."

Notes

[1] Friends of the Earth believes the environment is for everyone. We want a healthy planet and a good quality of life for all those who live on it. We inspire people to act together for a thriving environment. More than 90 per cent of our income comes from individuals so we rely on donations to continue our vital work.

Friends of the Earth Northern Ireland
7 Donegall Street Place
BELFAST
BT1 2FN
Tel: 028 9023 3488
Fax: 028 9024 7556
Email: foe-ni@foe.co.uk.

Published by Friends of the Earth Trust